Sarajevo: Visegrad, Sarkan Eight Railway & Kurstendorf Tour

Explore the Eastern Bosnian and Western Serbian Regions in One Day

The Sarajevo: Visegrad, Sarkan Eight Railway & Kurstendorf Tour offers a well-rounded journey through two countries over approximately 10 hours. Starting from Sarajevo, this tour takes you across the border into Serbia, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics straightforward and stress-free. The tour’s highlights are diverse: walk across the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mehmed Paa Sokolovi Bridge, ride the heritage Sarkan Eight Railway, and explore Kurstendorf, a lovingly recreated Serbian village. With a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 12 reviews, it clearly appeals to those interested in cultural sights and scenic rides.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day out that combines history, nature, and local culture. The guided commentary in English enriches every stop, and the small-group or private format ensures a more personalized experience. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, but bottled water is provided, and some stops like lunch are at your own expense. This trip balances sightseeing with comfort, making it suitable for curious travelers eager to see both Bosnia and Serbia in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour lasting around 10 hours from Sarajevo
• Visit Visegrad and walk across the UNESCO-listed Mehmed Paa Sokolovi Bridge
• Enjoy a boat cruise on the Drina River with scenic views
• Ride the Sarkan Eight narrow-gauge railway, passing through 22 tunnels on a historic train
• Explore Kurstendorf (Drvengrad), a replica Serbian village built for a film
• Tour includes hotel pickup, bottled water, and entry fees for the railway and Kurstendorf

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Sarajevo

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Sarajevo, with the driver holding a sign with your last name for easy identification. This arrangement ensures a smooth start without the hassle of finding a meeting point. The journey heads eastward, passing through stunning mountain landscapes and small villages, offering a glimpse of rural life and natural beauty en route.

Throughout the drive, a live English-speaking guide shares insights into the area’s history and culture, fueling anticipation for each stop ahead. The timing is flexible depending on availability, and the entire day is designed to balance sightseeing with comfortable pacing. This setup suits travelers who prefer a well-organized day with minimal logistical worries.

Walking Across the UNESCO-listed Mehmed Paa Sokolovi Bridge in Visegrad

The first major stop is Visegrad, home to the Famous Mehmed Paa Sokolovi Bridge, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stone arch bridge, built in the 16th century, spans the Drina River and is renowned for its historical significance and striking architecture. Walking across the bridge provides a tangible connection to the region’s Ottoman past and scenic views of the river valley.

Visitors can take time to appreciate the craftsmanship and take photos of the surrounding landscape, which features lush greenery and a tranquil river below. This site is particularly popular for its visual appeal and cultural importance, making it an ideal first stop on the tour.

Scenic Boat Cruise on the Drina River

After crossing the bridge, the tour includes a boat cruise on the Drina River. The cruise offers exceptional views of the bridge, waterway, and surrounding nature, giving a different perspective of the region’s landscapes. For 5 EUR, travelers can enjoy a relaxing ride, taking in the peaceful flow of the river amid lush scenery.

The boat cruise is a highlight for fans of water views and offers plenty of opportunities for photos. It also deepens the appreciation of Visegrad’s setting, where history and nature intertwine along the riverbanks.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Newly-Constructed Town of Andric

Next, the tour takes you to Andric Town, a recent addition built to honor Ivo Andric, Bosnia’s Nobel Prize-winning author. This town showcases a modern tribute to the writer, with architecture and displays dedicated to his life and works. It’s a quiet spot to reflect on Bosnia’s literary heritage and enjoy some peaceful surroundings.

While the details of the town’s features remain simple, it adds a cultural layer to the journey, complementing the historical and scenic elements of the day.

Crossing into Serbia to Experience the Sargan Eight Railway

Travelling into Serbia, the journey continues with a ride on the Sargan Eight heritage railway. Built shortly after World War I, this narrow-gauge line is known for its impressive engineering and scenic route. The train, powered by the Ciro locomotive, winds through 22 tunnels, providing panoramic views of the region’s rugged terrain.

The train ride costs 10 EUR and lasts long enough for travelers to take photos and enjoy the twist and turns of this historic route. The scenic route between Kustendorf and Sargan offers a glimpse into early 20th-century railway engineering and the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Exploring Kurstendorf (Drvengrad): The Serbian Village from a Film

After the train ride, the tour visits Kurstendorf, also known as Drvengrad. This replica village, built specifically for the 2004 film “Life is a Miracle” directed by Emir Kusturica, features traditional Serbian architecture, a hotel, a cinema, a chapel, galleries, and restaurants.

Time spent here allows for strolling through the charming streets, viewing film-inspired structures, and experiencing a taste of local culture recreated with care. Entry to Kurstendorf costs 4 EUR, and it’s a favorite for those interested in film, architecture, and cultural exploration.

Optional Lunch and Free Time

At Kurstendorf, there’s an opportunity for lunch at your own expense. The village offers various eateries where travelers can sample local cuisine or enjoy a casual meal before returning to Sarajevo. This break helps balance the busy sightseeing schedule and allows for personal choice.

Return Journey to Sarajevo

Following the visit to Kurstendorf, the tour concludes with the return to Sarajevo. The journey back follows the same scenic route, and the driver drops travelers off at their hotel, completing a full 10-hour day of exploration.

The experience provides a satisfying blend of heritage sites, scenic rides, and cultural insights, well-suited for those eager to see both Bosnia and Serbia in one convenient package.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day of Scenic and Cultural Highlights

The Sarajevo: Visegrad, Sarkan Eight Railway & Kurstendorf Tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to explore eastern Bosnia and western Serbia. The UNESCO-listed Mehmed Paa Sokolovi Bridge, the heritage railway, and the film-inspired Kurstendorf village stand out as memorable highlights, especially with the inclusion of guided commentary in English.

The tour’s small-group or private format ensures a personalized experience, and the hotel pickup simplifies logistics. While some may wish for food inclusions or more time at each stop, the overall pacing and diverse activities make it a worthwhile choice for those interested in history, scenery, and culture.

This tour particularly suits travelers who enjoy scenic rides, historical sites, and authentic cultural experiences without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there is free time at Kurstendorf for you to find a meal at your own expense.

How much does the Sarkan Eight Railway ride cost?
The heritage railway ride costs 10 EUR, and it features a scenic journey through 22 tunnels with a historic steam locomotive.

Is the boat cruise on the Drina River included?
Yes, the boat cruise costs 5 EUR and offers panoramic views of the river and bridge.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Visegrad (and the UNESCO bridge), Drina River boat cruise, Andric Town, Kurstendorf (Drvengrad), and the Sargan Eight Railway.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.

Is this tour suitable for private groups?
Yes, private and small group options are available, providing a more tailored experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby